Historic first women's Madrid derby to be played at the Wanda
League leaders Atlético play host to recently-promoted Madrid CFF, one of the revelations of the season. Ángel Villacampa's team have a one-point lead over Barça.
History will be made later this evening when the Wanda Metropolitano will open its doors for the first women's Madrid derby to be played at the stadium. Atlético de Madrid Femenino will host crosstown rivals Madrid CFF (18:15 hours CET) and with over 22,000 tickets already sold two days before the game, a vibrant atmosphere is guaranteed for what will be just the second meeting between the two clubs - Atleti winning November's first meeting in San Sebastián de los Reyes 0-3.
No margin for error
Today's derby is of vital importance to the hosts - for Ángel Villacampa's team, this is the first of eight 'finals' in the league title race. The Colchoneras top the table on 55 points but with just a slim, one-point lead over Barcelona, so cannot afford to slip up between now and May. Last week's 1-1 draw against their main rivals in Barcelona was a major confidence boost in their title ambitions and now they depend entirely on themselves if they are to go on and be crowned champions.
Villacampa has several players who will miss today's derby: Ludmila remains out with an ankle problem and while midfielder Silvia Meseguer has been unable to shake off a thigh strain. Kaci will team up with Ángela Sosa to form the midfield pivot, and Jucinara could be brought into the back four as cover for Marta Corredera down the left channel.
Resilient Madrid CFF, comeback experts
Liga Iberdrola newcomers Madrid CFF would like nothing better than to ruin the Rojiblanca party at the Wanda and the team led by Víctor Miguel Fernández enter the clash on a high after a run of victories against Santa Teresa, Athletic and Valencia which leaves them in the Copa de la Reina positions in 7th. Persistence has made Madrid CFF one of the revelation sides in the division - they have gained a reputation for being a team that will always fight back, having turned the tables on eight of their opponents this season after finding themselves trailing on the board. They have nothing to lose and everything to gain from today's match. It will also be a special occasion for a number of former coclcheneras, such as as Alexandra, who won the league with Atlético last season, as well as Leti, Ainoa and Jade.
Historic meeting
Captain Amanda Sampedro told Atlético's web page: "All of us are looking forward to experiencing what will be an historic day; that the club has given us the chance to play at the Wanda Metropolitano is really incredible. Every time we look to see how many tickets have been sold for the game it increases the responsibility on us to continue this moment we are in and live up to the team we are. The only thing we ask for is to go out there and make sure people enjoy the day - let's hope it's a party we can celebrate with a win".